8 Apps Every Traveller Should Use

7 October 2015
Read Time: 2.0 mins

"There's an app for that."

This might be the most infuriating sentence of the 21st century. Of course there's an app. That doesn't mean I want to use it or even know it exists.

Maybe I prefer unnecessary tribulations.

Sarcasm. Does it work in writing? I'm not convinced, but there's probably an app that could make it clearer.

What I am certain about is that if you're a frequent traveller, these eight apps make life easier and need to be on your smart phone or tablet.

Gogobot

 See attractions that suit your travelling style with Gogobot (Website: Gogobot Inc)

Whenever you visit a new city there's usually an initial foggy state of the unknown. Some people love this, while others worry about the underused time.

Gogobot is perfect for the latter, giving you the knowledge of a local with suggestions on what to see and do, where to eat and where to stay in countries around the world, along with reviews from other users.

Maps.Me

 Find the shortest route to your next experience (Image: Maps.Me)

Expensive data roaming charges can break hearts better than a high school sweetheart. Maps.Me helps you avoid a frightening phone bill by providing offline maps for every country around the world.

The quality is akin to Google Maps (and arguably better), with exceptional details including points of interest and a fast user experience.

Packing Pro

 Make sure you've got everything you need with Packing Pro (Image: Packing Pro)

Packing Pro analyses details about your trip (number of adults and children, destination, clothes washing preferences etc.) to create a recommended packing list from more than 800 items.

You can store, customize and share your lists, as well as attach photos of the items and schedule alerts so you never forget to pack anything again.

Backpackr

 Connect with like-minded travellers around the world (Image: Backpackr)

Easily find and connect with fellow travellers by becoming part of Backpackr's extensive community.

The social app makes it simple, by processing your travel details and showing you a list of travellers who will be in the same place at the same time.


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Word Lens

 Word Lens is a leader in translation apps (Image: Quest Visual, Inc.)

One of the most innovative apps to date, Word Lens has drastically altered the way we translate different languages.

Using your smart phone's video camera, the app translates printed words into your desired language in real time without using a network connection.

Touchnote

This one's a sweet gesture for the analogue travellers who like to stay in touch with friends and family in this digital world.

The app allows you to send personal travel photos with messages to anyone in Australia and around the world for a reasonable fee per postcard.

Kamino

 Never be at a loss for something to do (Website by Kamino Labs, Inc)

Kamino is a community of travellers from all over the globe who become your local guides during an overseas jaunt.

User-generated walking tours lead you around multiple cities and towns, with recommended stops along the way. You can also create your own tours and become the expert.

Outbound

 Hear about upcoming events from your Outbound family (Image: Outbound)

Another similar app to Backpackr that's just come out of Australia is Outbound, which also allows you to search for travellers by type, age, gender and location.

Users can also post upcoming events at different locations that others might be interested in attending.


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Ben Stower

I love the kind of travelling that is one part strategic planning and two parts spontaneous adventure. Whether I'm exploring my local city or a small town in the middle of nowhere, I'm always hoping to find something no one else has discovered.